ZMA is advertised as been backed up by “scientific research and real-world anecdotal evidence” to provide bodybuilders with strength gains, improved athletic performance, and increased muscle mass. However, in reality there is not anywhere as much evidence to back up its claims as it leads one to believe exists.

ZMA is a blend of zinc monomethionine aspartate, magnesium aspartate, and vitamin B6. It originally became marketed for bodybuilders based on a single study showing it significantly improved testosterone and IGF-1 in college football players. A later study done at Baylor University, however, found that it did not improve anabolic hormone status or lead to strength gains during training.

The belief behind ZMA’s effectiveness is related to zinc and magnesium being important for various biochemical reactions and thus deficiencies can interfere with your performance at the gym.

Zinc is an antioxidant that plays roles in immune and anti-inflammatory activities. It also helps maintain normal reproductive and sexual functions in men and women.

Deficiencies in zinc and/or magnesium can cause lower levels of IGF-1 and the effectiveness of muscle protein synthesis. Vitamin B6 is also plays a key role in protein metabolism. Also, B6 has been found to help improve the absorption of zinc and magnesium.

Thus ZMA can help those that are deficient in zinc and/or magnesium. However, studies found that those that were not deficient saw no improvement in testosterone levels by taking ZMA supplements. Basically ZMA supplements can be useful for some, but only those that are not getting enough zinc and/or magnesium from their diet. (Posted on 2/18/11)

Good product from a good company; I've bought it before and will buy it again. Once paid for, I usually receive the order within 5 days, which isn't bad considering I'm in the U.K. and most U.K. companies struggle to beat that service! (Posted on 11/30/10)

This is my bodybuildng recovery staple. Great recovery time. Crazy wacky dreams on this stuff but boy, it makes a big difference in recovery and muscle growth. (Posted on 5/11/09)

This stuff is amazing! I get a good 8-10 hours of sleep and I always feel recovered and ready to hit the gym the next day. I've also noticed an increase in my sex drive, probably from the increase in testosterone levels. Hope the effects continue!
Highly recommended!!! (Posted on 1/19/09)